The hydrogen sulfate or bisulfate ion HSO₄^- can act as either an acid or a base in water solution. In which of the following equations does HSO₄^- act as an acid? A) HSO₄^- + H₂O → SO₄^2- + H₃O⁺ B) HSO₄^- + H₂O → H₂SO₄ + OH^- C) HSO₄^- + H₃O⁺ → SO₃ + 2H₂O D) HSO₄^- + OH^- → H₂SO₄ + O^2- E) none of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In option A, the hydrogen sulfate ion (HSO4-) donates a proton (H+) to become sulfate (SO4^2-), acting as an acid according to the Brønsted-Lowry definition.

The Hydrogen Sulfate or Bisulfate Ion HSO4- Can Act as Either

The Hydrogen Sulfate or Bisulfate Ion HSO₄^- Can Act as Either